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The 2022 NWSL Challenge Cup has returned as the third installment of the competition begins on Friday when Racing Louisville FC and Kansas City Current clash and Pacific Northwest rivals OL Reign and Portland Thorns FC close out opening day.
Opening weekend will feature four games, including a tripleheader on Saturday with the Orlando Pride hosting 2021 NWSL champions Washington Spirit, North Carolina Courage squaring off against NJ/NY Gotham FC, and new California expansion sides Angel City FC and San Diego Wave FC going head-to-head in a special inaugural game for both sides. On Sunday we close things out with the Houston Dash hosting the Chicago Red Stars. Fans can watch all Challenge Cup opening weekend festivities on Paramount+.
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Here’s where teams rank on our rankings ahead of the 2022 Challenge Cup:
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1. |
Washington Spirit |
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The Spirit begin the Challenge Cup as reigning NWSL champions with much of their title-winning roster intact. They’ve got the target on their backs as the tournament kicks off with Ashley Sanchez, Ashley Hatch, and Trinity Rodman leading the attack |
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2. |
OL Reign |
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Laura Harvey, who joined the Reign as head coach late last season, will finally get the chance to have a full season under her belt with the club in order to build off a string 2021 campaign. A midfield built around Rose Lavelle, Quinn and Jess Fishlock will be key to their success. |
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3. |
Portland Thorns |
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The 2021 Challenge Cup winners have a new head… |
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Source : cbssports
